A strong foundation is essential for a lasting smile. When bone loss threatens your ability to receive dental implants or maintain your oral health, bone grafting offers a powerful solution. This transformative procedure restores strength and stability to your jaw, paving the way for tooth replacement.
While the process involves care and patience, the recovery leads to renewed confidence and a healthier, more resilient smile. Bone grafting isn’t just a treatment; it’s a step toward reclaiming the comfort and function your smile deserves.
What Is Bone Grafting?
A dental bone graft is a surgical procedure to increase jawbone density. Bone grafts are performed for numerous reasons, including the following:
- To increase jawbone density before dental implant surgery
- To rebuild your jaw before getting dentures
- To repair damaged bone after a trauma or injury
- To stabilize loose teeth
The Procedure—What to Expect
When you arrive for your bone grafting procedure, we’ll ensure you’re comfortable in one of our treatment rooms before following these steps.
- First, we’ll use local anesthetic to numb your gums so you won’t feel anything during the grafting process.
- Next, we’ll make an incision in your gums and gently move them away from your jawbone.
- After cleaning the area, we’ll add bone grafting material where it’s needed.
- Then, we will cover the bone graft to protect it before repositioning your gums.
- Finally, we’ll add stitches to close the incision.
Recovery Tips to Consider
After a bone grafting procedure, it’s normal for your mouth to be swollen and tender for several days. Here are some recovery tips that can help manage any discomfort:
- Take over-the-counter pain relievers.
- Apply ice packs to your face and jaw.
- Elevate your head to reduce swelling.
- Eat soft foods like yogurt, scrambled eggs, and oatmeal.
- Keep the surgical site clean.
- Avoid smoking and alcohol.
- Contact your Alexandria dentist if you’re experiencing issues.
Need Information about Bone Grafting in Alexandria, VA?
If you’re looking for a dentist in Franconia, VA, consider the expert dental team at Life Advanced Integrated Dentistry. We can assess your dental situation and help you form a bone grafting treatment plan.
Please call our dental office at (703) 253-7399 to schedule a consultation or appointment.